When kitchenware is manually washed, how long should it be immersed in hot water for sanitizing?

Immersing kitchenware in hot water is an effective method for sanitizing items in a food service environment. To achieve proper sanitation through this method, the recommended duration is typically around 30 seconds. This time frame is crucial because it allows the hot water, usually maintained at a temperature of at least 171°F (77°C), to effectively reduce the number of pathogenic microorganisms present on the surfaces of the kitchenware.

Achieving this level of sanitization in a shorter period may not provide sufficient time for the heat to penetrate and kill harmful bacteria effectively, which is why immersing for less than 30 seconds could risk leaving the kitchenware inadequately sanitized. Therefore, maintaining the recommended immersion time ensures that the sanitation process is thorough, promoting food safety and minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.